Aeonium nobile (Noble Aeonium) - A robust and clustering selection or hybrid of Aeonium nobile that has short stout stems topped by large rosettes to 12 to 15 inches across with thick fleshy orange to red-tinged olive-green rounded-tip triangular leaves with offsets forming along the stems - which is atypical for the species. After several years the plant matures and in late winter to spring produces a large inflorescence that rises on a red stalk to display a flattened capitate head over 1 foot wide and nearly as tall with many small star-shaped pink flowers with white anthers (the species usually has dark red flowers). While the main rosette dies (and results in the plant's demise for the non-clustering species) the non-flowering rosettes on this plant live on. Grows well in shade but develops the red coloration best when grown in full coastal sun or at least part sun inland. Here on the coast it is drought tolerant but tolerates regular irrigation so long as the soil is very well draining. Hardy to the mid to low 20's F with reported leaf damage around 20F. An easy to grow plant that is great planted in a dry succulent planting or used as an unusual potted specimen. This species is a bit rarer than most other Aeonium and many consider it to be the best of the genus. Aeonium nobile is endemic to the Canary Islands where it can be found growing in lava rock and experiences dry summers while the plant is dormant. This origins of this selection/hybrid is a bit of a mystery - we purchased our original stock plant at Terra Sol Nursery, a retail nursery in Santa Barbara, CA.
This description is based on research and observations made of this plant as it grows in our nursery, in our nursery garden and in other gardens that we have visited. We also try to incorporate comments received from others and appreciate getting feedback of any kind from those who have any additional information about this plant, particularly if they disagree with what we have written or if they have additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing Aeonium nobile 'Cluster Form'.